Nearly two decades of work expanding outdoor recreation in northern Moore County has earned statewide recognition for William and Lynne McDuffie of Robbins.
The couple received the inaugural Great Trails State Everyday Trail Maker Award during the annual Great Trails State North Carolina Conference in Winston-Salem. The Bear Creek Trail award recognizes their work developing and maintaining outdoor opportunities around Robbins.
Statewide Recognition for Moore County Volunteers
The Everyday Trail Maker Award was created to recognize volunteers, professionals and organizations that make significant contributions to the planning, construction and maintenance of North Carolina’s trails and greenways.
Visit Pinehurst, Southern Pines, Aberdeen nominated the McDuffies for the honor. The local tourism organization is a charter member of the Great Trails State Coalition.
The McDuffies are both veterinarians at Carthage Animal Hospital. In 2007, they founded Foothills Outdoors, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing affordable outdoor recreational opportunities in and around Robbins.
Building the Bear Creek Trail System
Working with other outdoor enthusiasts and community supporters, the McDuffies raised money and helped develop what is now the Bear Creek Trail system.
The system currently features approximately 14 miles of trails available for hiking and mountain biking. The area also provides access for canoeing and kayaking, along with a disc-golf course.
Bear Creek hosts outdoor events throughout the year, including 5K races, endurance challenges and ultramarathons. The trails have become a recreational destination while also giving local residents a place to exercise and enjoy the natural environment.
The Bear Creek Trail award highlights the long-term volunteer effort required to create and maintain those opportunities.
Growing Support for Trails Across North Carolina
The Great Trails State Coalition advocates for increased investment in hiking, paddling, mountain-biking, equestrian and paved trails throughout North Carolina.
The North Carolina General Assembly recently approved $15 million in funding for trails, including nearly $10 million designated for the Great Trails State Program. Other funding will support trail construction and organizations involved in developing and maintaining outdoor spaces.
For the Sandhills, the Bear Creek Trail award brings attention to a recreational resource in northern Moore County that was built largely through community support.
The recognition also demonstrates how local volunteers can turn an idea into a lasting public amenity. Since creating Foothills Outdoors in 2007, the McDuffies and their supporters have continued expanding opportunities for hikers, runners, cyclists, paddlers and families.
The inaugural Bear Creek Trail award recognizes that commitment and the role the couple has played in making Robbins part of North Carolina’s growing trails network.
Source: Information for this report was provided through the Sandhills Sentinel and Visit Pinehurst, Southern Pines, Aberdeen.
